About the opportunity
The Department of Mathematical Sciences (MATH) at the University of Copenhagen offers a dynamic, international research environment with approximately 50 permanent scientific staff, 60 PhD students, and 35 postdocs. The department hosts strong research groups in areas including Algebra & Geometry, Analysis, and Quantum Mathematics. Successful candidates will conduct independent research under supervision, participate in research environments, complete PhD courses, engage in teaching, and write scientific papers. The program is available as a 3-year regular PhD (5+3 scheme) for those with a relevant Master’s degree, or an integrated 5-year MSc and PhD (3+5 scheme) for those with a relevant Bachelor’s degree.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time employment for up to 3 years for the regular PhD program.
- Integrated MSc and PhD program duration of up to 5 years.
- Salary and terms of employment based on the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.
- Access to active research environments and international collaboration opportunities.
- Support for research stays at other institutions, preferably abroad.
Who can apply?
- For the regular PhD program: A degree equivalent to a Danish Master's degree in a relevant subject area.
- For the integrated MSc and PhD program: A degree equivalent to a Danish Bachelor's degree and eligibility for a relevant Master's program at the Faculty of Science.
- Strong interest in mathematics and a curious mindset.
- Good English language skills.
- Professional qualifications relevant to the proposed PhD project.
Required documents
- Motivated letter of application (maximum one page).
- Curriculum vitae including education, experience, publications, and language skills.
- Original diplomas for Bachelor's or Master's degrees.
- Transcript of records in the original language with an authorized English or Danish translation.
- Reference letters (optional but recommended).
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-11-01, 23:59 GMT+1.
- Standard start date: 2027-09-01 (subject to negotiation).
How to apply
- Prepare all required documents in English.
- Submit the application electronically via the official online portal using the 'APPLY NOW' link.
- Ensure reference letters are uploaded or sent to the specified HR email address by the reference person.
Additional information
- The University of Copenhagen may require a background screening for security and research integrity.
- Applicants are encouraged to contact department members to discuss potential research projects.
- The integrated program grant is paid as state education grant portions (SU-klip) plus salary for work until the MSc degree is obtained, followed by a full salary-earning period.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Candidates with a strong academic background in mathematics or quantum information science who are looking for a structured, research-intensive PhD environment.
- Students currently completing a Bachelor's degree who wish to pursue an integrated, long-term path toward a PhD.
- Researchers interested in working within established, high-impact groups such as the Copenhagen Center for Geometry & Topology or the Centre for the Mathematics of Quantum Theory.
What should you think carefully about?
- The application deadline is significantly in advance of the start date; ensure your academic credentials and transcripts are ready well before November 2026.
- The integrated program involves a transition from a grant-based structure to a full salary-earning position, which requires careful financial planning during the initial study phase.
- Relocation to Copenhagen is expected, and candidates should consider the cost of living in Denmark relative to the provided stipend and salary.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is ideal for early-career researchers aiming to establish themselves in a top-tier European mathematical research environment. Whether you are seeking a direct 3-year PhD or a comprehensive 5-year integrated program, the University of Copenhagen provides the necessary resources, supervision, and international network to build a strong foundation for a career in academia or high-level research.
Our take
Highly recommended for motivated mathematics graduates seeking a rigorous, well-funded PhD program in a collaborative and international setting. Applicants should ensure their research interests align closely with the department's active research sections before applying.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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